Why does Jardiance make me pee so much and get yeast infections?

Why Does Jardiance Make Me Pee So Much and Get Yeast Infections?
Keyword: jardiance side effects

Empagliflozin (brand name Jardiance) is in a class of medications called SGLT2 inhibitors. It’s prescribed to help lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death. While it can be highly effective, two of the most common jardiance side effects are frequent urination and yeast infections. Here’s why they happen and what you can do about them.

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1. How Jardiance Works in the Kidneys

Jardiance targets the sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) proteins in your kidneys. These proteins normally:

• Reabsorb about 90% of the glucose filtered by the kidneys
• Return that glucose into your bloodstream

When you take Jardiance:

• SGLT2 transporters are blocked
• Less glucose is reabsorbed
• More glucose is excreted in your urine

Result: Lower blood sugar—but also more sugar in your urine.

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2. Why You Pee So Much

Osmotic Diuresis

The extra sugar in your urine pulls water with it by a process called osmotic diuresis. This leads to:

• Increased urine volume
• More frequent trips to the bathroom

Volume Depletion Risks

Urinating more can lead to:

• Dehydration (thirst, dry mouth)
• Low blood pressure (dizziness, lightheadedness)
• Increased risk of falls or fainting

Tips to manage frequent urination:

• Drink water regularly throughout the day
• Monitor for signs of dehydration (dark urine, dry skin)
• Time your doses to avoid nighttime disruptions—ask your doctor if an evening dose shift makes sense

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3. Why Yeast Infections Happen

Sugar Feeds Yeast

Candida (a type of yeast) thrives in warm, moist environments where sugar is present. With higher sugar levels in your urine:

• Yeast can multiply more easily in the genital area
• Both women and men can develop infections

Common Symptoms

• In women: itching, burning, abnormal discharge
• In men: rash on the penis (balanitis), itching, redness

Preventive Measures:

• Keep the genital area clean and dry
• Wear breathable cotton underwear
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing
• After urinating, gently pat the area dry
• Consider over-the-counter antifungal creams at the first sign of symptoms
• Talk to your healthcare provider about prescription treatments if OTC options aren’t enough

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4. Other Jardiance Side Effects to Watch For

While frequent urination and yeast infections are among the most common, Jardiance can cause other side effects. Most are mild, but some warrant immediate medical attention.

Common (Mild to Moderate)

• Urinary tract infections (painful urination, urgent need to pee)
• Thirst, dry mouth
• Constipation

Less Common (Potentially Serious)

• Dehydration and low blood pressure: dizziness, fainting
• Ketoacidosis: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing—this can occur even if blood sugar isn’t extremely high
• Acute kidney injury: reduced urine output (paradoxically), swelling, fatigue
• Serious genital infections: if you notice severe pain, swelling, fever, or foul-smelling discharge

If you experience any of these, speak to a doctor right away.

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5. Practical Tips for Living Well on Jardiance

1. Stay Hydrated

   • Aim for 6–8 cups of water daily (adjust for activity level and climate).
   • Sip water throughout the day rather than in large gulps.

2. Monitor Your Blood Pressure

   • Check it at home if you can.
   • Report any episodes of dizziness or fainting.

3. Watch for Infection Signs

   • Genital itching, redness, discharge, or rash.
   • Urinary symptoms such as burning, frequency beyond what you expect, or cloudy urine.

4. Practice Good Hygiene

   • Pat dry after urinating.
   • Change damp clothing promptly.
   • Choose loose, breathable fabrics.

5. Keep a Symptom Diary

   • Note frequency of urination, fluid intake, any signs of infection, blood sugar readings.
   • Share this with your healthcare team to fine-tune your treatment.

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6. When to Seek Professional Help

Even with the best self-care, you may need professional input if you experience:

• Signs of serious infection (fever, chills, intense pain)
• Symptoms of diabetic ketoacidosis (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rapid breathing)
• Persistent dehydration or worsening low blood pressure
• New or worsening kidney problems

For non-urgent concerns or to check symptoms quickly, consider a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker. It’s a convenient way to get guidance on whether you should adjust self-care or seek medical attention.

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7. Balancing Benefits and Risks

Jardiance has proven benefits:

• Lowers blood sugar
• Reduces risk of heart failure and cardiovascular death in high-risk patients

But like any medication, it involves weighing benefits against jardiance side effects:

• Increased urination and potential dehydration
• Higher risk of genital and urinary tract infections

A good partnership with your healthcare provider—and open communication about what you’re experiencing—ensures you get the maximum benefit with the best possible safety.

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Final Reminder: Always discuss new or worsening symptoms with a healthcare professional. If you experience severe or life-threatening issues, such as signs of ketoacidosis, acute kidney injury, or uncontrolled infections, please speak to a doctor immediately.